Cruz Urges Trump to Recognize Somaliland: Strategic Counter to China in Horn of Africa

Republican Senator Ted Cruz has intensified pressure on the Trump administration to formally recognize Somaliland’s independence, framing the self-declared republic as a critical U.S. ally against Chinese expansionism in the volatile Horn of Africa. In an August 14, 2025 letter obtained by journalists, the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee chair called Somaliland a “critical security and diplomatic partner” essential for U.S. counterterrorism, trade, and military interests. This bold move challenges decades of U.S. policy recognizing Somalia’s territorial integrity and spotlights Somaliland’s strategic value near the Red Sea—a waterway handling 15% of global trade now threatened by Houthi attacks.

Why Somaliland Recognition Matters Geopolitically

Cruz’s push comes amid escalating U.S.-China competition for African influence. The senator accused China of deploying “economic and diplomatic coercion” against Somaliland for hosting Taiwan’s representative office since 2020, including pressuring Somalia to bar Taiwanese travelers. Pentagon officials view Somaliland’s port of Berbera as a vital alternative to Djibouti—home to America’s Camp Lemonnier base but also a neighboring Chinese military outpost. Recent negotiations have explored establishing a U.S. presence at Berbera, while Somaliland has offered Washington access to rare earth minerals like lithium and coltan, crucial for electronics amid global shortages.

This alignment reflects Somaliland’s concerted courtship of U.S. interests. Representative Bashir Goth hailed Cruz’s letter as a “historic step” toward legitimizing the territory’s role as a “bulwark against Chinese influence.” Momentum is building: The House Appropriations Committee recently mandated a State Department report on expanded ties within 120 days, while Representative Scott Perry’s recognition bill has gained Republican support. Notably, AFRICOM commander General Dagvin Anderson testified that engagement serves U.S. interests, and President Trump confirmed his administration is “looking into” policy shifts.

Somaliland’s Unrecognized Stability in a Troubled Region

Somaliland’s case rests on its extraordinary stability compared to neighboring Somalia. After declaring independence in 1991 amid Somalia’s collapse, the former British protectorate rebuilt through a hybrid governance model blending clan traditions and democracy. It has held seven peaceful elections since 1991, including a May 2024 presidential vote with 70% turnout using iris-scan verification—a stark contrast to Somalia, where al-Shabaab militants control swaths of territory.

Economically, Somaliland thrives on $1.3 billion in annual remittances and livestock exports supplying 60% of Gulf states’ sheep and goats. Berbera port handles millions of tons of cargo, while its security forces helped slash Gulf of Aden piracy from over 200 annual incidents to near zero. Yet despite functional institutions, currency, and passports accepted internationally, no country recognizes Somaliland due to African Union fears of encouraging secessionism. Somalia recently bolstered ties with Türkiye to counter Somaliland’s diplomatic overtures.

Recognition could transform regional dynamics, offering the U.S. a stable partner to secure shipping lanes, critical minerals, and democratic foothold against authoritarian expansion—all while honoring a people’s resilience since surviving the 1988 Hargeisa bombings that killed tens of thousands. Contact your representatives to support policies rewarding proven stability over outdated diplomatic conventions.

Must Know

Q: Why is Somaliland not recognized internationally?
A: No country recognizes Somaliland due to the African Union’s policy against border changes post-colonization, fearing it could encourage secessionist movements. Somalia also claims the territory, complicating diplomatic relations despite Somaliland’s de facto independence since 1991.

Q: How does Somaliland benefit U.S. interests?
A: Strategically located near the Red Sea, Somaliland offers port access at Berbera as an alternative to China-influenced Djibouti. It provides counterterrorism cooperation, rare mineral resources, and a stable partner in a volatile region critical for global trade routes.

Q: What’s China’s role in the recognition debate?
A: China opposes Somaliland due to its ties with Taiwan and has pressured Somalia to isolate the territory. U.S. recognition would counter Beijing’s regional influence and support a democracy resisting Chinese coercion.

Q: Has Somaliland met conditions for statehood?
A: Experts note Somaliland fulfills most criteria under the Montevideo Convention: a defined territory, permanent population, effective government, and capacity for international relations. Its democratic elections and institutions exceed many recognized states’ governance standards.